In his poem “On Turning Ten” American poet laureate, Billy Collins, describes turning that “first big number.” He describes the age as both young and old at the same time, and that is the wonder of teaching fifth graders. Fifth-graders try on new roles, explore themselves and how they fit in with their peer group. They start identifying with peers more than adults and are becoming aware, and making sense, of a complicated world. Our fifth-grade program tries to recognize this as it helps fifth-grade students navigate their social, emotional and academic worlds. We are mindful that this is the last year of Lower School for students and work hard to protect their time as Lower School students while giving them the skills and confidence for their transition at the end of the year.
Whether your child is joining us in fifth grade or has been here since they were in preschool, fifth grade is an exciting year in the Lower School. Towards the end of the year there are many opportunities to learn about the Middle School program that will help students with the transition. We look forward to working with your child in the final year of Lower School!